The next generation of freeride mountain biking talent is officially heading to Darkfest 2026 after Sam Reynolds announced the winners of the inaugural Big Air Academy wildcard competition.
After receiving hundreds of video submissions from young riders around the world, Reynolds originally planned to select just one winner. However, the level of talent proved too impressive to ignore.
“After enjoying quite literally hundreds of entries to the Big Air Academy unfortunately there could only be one winner… or actually maybe two,”.
Reynolds shared in the video announcement
A Mission to Grow Freeride
The Big Air Academy was created to help keep freeride and big air mountain biking thriving among younger riders. Reynolds’ goal was to support a talented rider who didn’t yet have a bike sponsor — a huge step in the professional mountain biking world.
“With a bike sponsor you get bikes, support, and the chance to work with brands to create photos and videos. It’s one of the best things you can get in mountain biking.”
Reynolds explained
Second Place: Ihan Patiño
In a surprise twist, Reynolds introduced a second-place rider after reviewing the entries again. Ihan Patiño earned the runner-up spot thanks to a standout video packed with huge tricks and fearless style.
His entry featured massive double flips and bold sends that perfectly captured the fearless spirit associated with Darkfest’s legendary jumps.
Winner: Harry Gascoyne
Taking the top spot is Harry Gascoyne, a 21-year-old freeride rider from Oxfordshire in the UK.
Reynolds praised Gascoyne versatility across multiple disciplines.
“He can ride slopestyle amazingly well, dirt jumps, shred downhill and I’ve seen him on some big jumps too — so I know he’s going to do some cool things at Darkfest.”
Gascoyne, who grew up riding bikes with his father before discovering mountain biking at a pump track near his home, said the opportunity feels surreal.
“I grew up watching Darkfest videos every year. They kept getting crazier and crazier, and I never thought I’d be riding those jumps,”.
he said
Big Rewards for Big Talent
Both riders receive major support thanks to Polygon Bikes and IXS.
The prize package includes:
- A Polygon DH7 downhill bike and slopestyle bike
- Full riding kit from IXS
- Flights and tickets to attend Darkfest
The opportunity places them alongside some of the world’s best freeride riders at one of the sport’s most iconic events.
Darkfest Rider List Expands
With the Big Air Academy already producing two standout riders in its first year, Reynolds hinted that the initiative could grow even further.
“The Big Air Academy is growing already and the Darkfest rider list is getting bigger and better than ever,”.
he said
As the massive jumps of Darkfest prepare to launch riders skyward once again, all eyes will now be on Harry Gascoyne and Ihan Patiño as they get their chance to prove themselves on one of freeride mountain biking’s biggest stages.
